Pathways to Prevention (P2P) Program

Robert Motl, Ph.D.

Robert Motl

Professor and Director of Research, Physical Therapy
University of Alabama at Birmingham

Presentation Abstract

Challenges and Opportunities for the Design of Exercise Interventions for Wheelchair Users

This presentation focuses on challenges and opportunities for the design of exercise interventions for wheelchair users, and largely is informed from the area of exercise training in multiple sclerosis (MS). There are 6 challenges that will be discussed, including (1) heterogeneity of outcomes; (2) sample representativeness; (3) samples without a focal problem; (4) research design continuum; (5) mechanisms of benefits; and (6) adherence and sustainability. The recognition and opportunities of these challenges can influence the ultimate translation and implementation of knowledge into practice and care of wheelchair users.

About Dr. Motl

Robert Motl has systematically developed a research agenda that focuses on physical activity and its measurement, predictors, and consequences in persons with neurological diseases, particularly MS. Dr. Motl has generated a body of research on the validity of common physical activity measures in persons with MS. This has resulted in foundational research on quantifying differences in physical activity, particularly rates of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, in persons with MS. These two lines of research have provided the basis for examining the outcomes of physical activity in MS, particularly beneficial adaptations in brain structure, cognition, depression, fatigue, walking disability, and quality of life. Dr. Motl has undertaken research on social-cognitive predictors of physical activity that has informed the design of behavioral interventions for increasing physical activity in MS. This agenda serves as a test-bed for application and expansion into other conditions such as SCI and Parkinson’s disease.

Dr. Motl did not disclose any conflicts of interest for this workshop.

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